Freedom of Expression Policy

The University of Houston is committed to fostering a learning environment where free inquiry and expression are encouraged. The University expects that persons engaging in expressive activities will demonstrate civility, concern for the safety of persons and property, respect for University activities, respect for those who may disagree with their message, and compliance with University policies and applicable local, state, and federal laws. The University of Houston maintains its right to place reasonable time, place, and manner restrictions on expressive activities. Additionally, any activities that are unlawful or disruptive to the normal operations of the University including classes and University business activities will not be tolerated. The purpose of the University of Houston Freedom of Expression Policy (MAPP 13.01.01) is to provide for organized expressive activities to be conducted on the grounds of the University in a manner consistent with these principles. Groups or individuals engaging in disruptive activities or failing to comply with University policies and applicable local, state, and federal laws may face immediate removal from the campus and other appropriate actions by University officials and University police.

The Freedom of Expression Policy is applicable to University of Houston students, faculty and staff, who wish to engage in extracurricular, organized expressive activities (as defined in MAPP 13.01.01) including public speaking, literature distribution, poster displays, sign displays, any other type of graphic exhibitions, expressive performances, petitioning, or similar noncommercial activities at locations on University property. This policy does not apply to official University activities. University grounds and buildings are reserved for use by University of Houston students, faculty, and staff, except as otherwise permitted by policies of the University. Expressive activities permitted under this policy do not imply official endorsement by the University. Groups or individuals engaged in expressive activities are responsible for the content of the expression.

A copy of the University of Houston Freedom of Expression Policy may be obtained in the Dean of Students Office, and is available on the University of Houston Manual of Administrative Policies and Procedures Web Pages at www.uh.edu/mapp/.